Coffee Table Pi is a modern adaptation of an arcade cocktail cabinet. A user can also surf internet, send emails etc with a wireless keyboard and a mouse. In the table’s center is a 24 inch LCD screen that can be used for instance to view photographs or see updates from news websites. As you can see, the usability of this project is very high.
The wood work used in building the table is recycled. This cuts the cost and is also an environment friendly approach. Besides the woodwork, a maker would need a 24 inch LCD screen (the size depends on your choice) with backlight, arcade joysticks and buttons, Perspex sheet 4mm – cut to the size of the outside edge of the LCD screen -, wood, glue, screws and good speaker for the audio output (again, speakers are not necessary).
In the table, there is a transformer which gets input from the mains and regurgitates 9V AC to the circuit board. This component must be safely enclosed inside the table. It is never to be touched when the power is switched on.
As for the interface, there is a boot menu that allows the selection of games using advanced meme, or web browsing which boots into a window manager.